Updated: June 19, 2024

There are SO many restaurants to pick from in Disney World — how do you know which ones to visit during your 2024 trip? Just looking at a list of them can be overwhelming. 😣

And with the Disney Dining Plan back, you might feel an extra sense of pressure to pick the “right” spots for you and your family. Well, the best restaurants for you can really vary on a lot of things — your party size, the type of food you like, whether you like to eat big meals or smaller meals, and more. But today we’re going to take a little bit of the stress away and at least give you a good starting point — our pick of 14 of the BEST restaurants to try in 2024!

Looking for our 2023 list just to see what has made our top picks more than once? Click here!

Existing Spots

First, let’s tackle spots that are already open in Disney World (some of which are newer, while others have been around for a while!).

1 — Roundup Rodeo BBQ (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)

We’re starting things off with a newer restaurant — Roundup Rodeo BBQ, located in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This table service restaurant serves backyard barbecue eats family-style, and there are a lot of things to love.

For starters, the theming here is ON POINT. You are surrounded by Toy Story designs, character cut-outs, and even sound cues that trigger some really great effects.

On top of that, the eats are served family-style, which can be awesome for families looking to eat a LOT. You can order more of the things you enjoy, and fill up on smoked meats, tons of side items, and sweet treats (of course).

The food may not be all that different than what you might find at a REALLY good barbecue, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If you want food that’s incredibly unique, other options on this list might be better for you. But if you like backyard picnic-style foods, love great theming, and are a fan of family-style restaurants, this spot could be JUST the thing to check out!

Update: Now, that menu has shrunk a bit down to 5 total sides that are brought out to your table all at the same time. Now, your side options are only The Claw! Veggie Slaw, Cowpoke Corn on the Cob, Potato Barrels, Buckin’ Baked Beans, and Slinky Doooooooooog Mac & Cheese. This means the Mean Ole Potato Salad, The Married Spuds (loaded potato barrels), and Force Field Fried Pickels have officially been cut from the restaurant’s menu.

2 — Garden Grill (EPCOT)

Next, it’s time to hop over to EPCOT for another family-style restaurant that isn’t new, but often gets overlooked when it should NOT. Garden Grill is a rotating restaurant in The Land Pavilion at EPCOT. And we’re not exaggerating when we say this spot has it ALL.

When it comes to the atmosphere, the restaurant is laid back and relaxed. It quite literally ROTATES (slowly, don’t worry!) while you eat. And as you munch on your food, you get to see scenes from the Living with the Land ride.

It’s also a character meal, so you’ll get to spend some time saying “hello” to Farmer Mickey, Pluto, and even Chip ‘n’ Dale! They come to your table, and since the restaurant is relatively small and typically not ridiculously packed, you get a decent amount of time with them — which is more than what can be said for other spots in Disney World.

Plus, when it comes to the food, this has consistently been a solid spot. Breakfast returned to Garden Grill in 2023, so you can now stop here for a family-style meal. The food might not be terribly unique, but it’s a solid American breakfast. Note that some menu items have changed recently.

At lunch and dinner, you’ll also find a meal served family-style. Again, the food itself is not the most unique thing in the world but the options are consistently tasty, straightforward, and crowd-pleasing.

Time and time again, Garden Grill makes our list of DFB favorites. The food is tasty, the character interactions are precious, and it’s a really enjoyable time.

3 — Satu’li Canteen (Disney’s Animal Kingdom)

If it’s a Quick Service meal you’re after, one of the BEST places to go in Disney World is Satu’li Canteen, in the World of Pandora at Animal Kingdom. The food here is definitely more on the unique side in terms of theme park fast food.

Love burgers? You won’t find one on the menu… but you will find the INCREDIBLY delicious and popular Steamed Pods, which is basically a bao bun twist on a burger (and they are amazing).

The other star of the show here is the variety of customizable bowls available. You get to pick your base, meat, and sauce to create something that is just what you’d like. Want crispy fried tofu? They’ve got it! There’s also chicken, shrimp, and beef in terms of meat options. In terms of base options, there’s a red and sweet potato hash, rice and beans, noodles, and salad. And sauces include charred green onion vinaigrette, black bean vinaigrette, and a creamy herb sauce.

Though the recent change to the beef bowl here has NOT been our favorite, we still think the options here, as a whole, are unique and typically very tasty. Plus, you can wash it all down with fun and brightly colored drinks — like the Pandoran Sunrise (pineapple juice, limeade, and melon) — and even some alcoholic options.

There are desserts available too, including some seasonal ones that typically keep us coming back year after year.

Basically, if you want a quick meal that is unique, beautiful, and typically delicious, THIS is the place to go.

See our reviews from Satu’li Canteen here!

4 — Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)

At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, there are a variety of fantastic restaurants, but the theming of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is what sets it apart from the rest.

The lounge/bar has all kinds of interactive elements, including special effects that go off in the room depending on what you order, and Cast Member antics that’ll have you laughing all night long.

This place is filled to the brim with details to search for, so really take your time to look around.

The drinks have some great tropical flavors and some even come in unique, collectible glasses. Plus, you can balance that out with some snacks like tacos or flatbread.

The star here really is the atmosphere though, so bring some friends or family members, grab a spot (a virtual queue is often used because this spot can be very busy!), and enjoy. Just keep in mind that until 8PM, this restaurant is available to the whole family. Only 21 and over are allowed to visit after that.

See whether Trader Sam’s is right for you by reading our full review here

5 — The Polite Pig (Disney Springs)

The Polite Pig is a consistent favorite in Disney Springs and is beloved for many reasons. For starters, you WON’T need a park ticket to get there — a great start.

Second, the food here is not your ordinary fast food. Though it is a Quick Service restaurant, you’ll find high-quality and DELICIOUS eats on the menu like BBQ Meatballs, pulled pork, prime brisket, ribs, and more.

The food comes from James and Julie Petrakis (in partnership with Chef Brian Petrakis), who are well-known in the Orlando area for their restaurants The Ravenous Pig and Cask & Larder which focus on using local seasonal ingredients.

On top of that, there are often seasonal eats here — including Chef’s specials and seasonal sides — that’ll keep you coming back time and time again.

And you can pair your meal with some of their alcoholic drink selections, including items from their EXTENSIVE whiskey collection!

Between the consistently delicious food, constant new eats, and fun drinks, The Polite Pig is an easy choice for your next inexpensive meal in Disney Springs.

Click here to see more about The Polite Pig

6 — Rosa Mexicano (Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts)

One newish restaurant that has opened in Disney World is Rosa Mexicano, located at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort. This spot — which focuses on Mexican cuisine — offers “an elevated fiesta dining experience.”

This restaurant has dishes that pay tribute to Mexico’s various regions, over 100 varieties of tequila, a frozen margarita, and more.

We really enjoyed the setting here, with its beautiful windows, colorful artwork, and upbeat music. Plus, the food we had was quite tasty, with the Roasted Chicken Suizas being a real highlight.

If you really love Mexican food (and/or cilantro — which was heavily featured in dishes here) and want to try a restaurant that has a nice, upbeat vibe, give this spot a try!

Click here for our full review of Rosa Mexicano

7 — Liberty Tree Tavern (Magic Kingdom)

Our next stop takes us to a seriously UNDERRATED restaurant in Magic Kingdom — Liberty Tree Tavern. Seriously, folks, this spot flies under the radar for so many but it should absolutely be on your must-visit list.

At this restaurant, it’s basically Thanksgiving every day thanks to its family-style meal featuring different meats, mashed potatoes, gravy, and ALL the fixings.

Plus, that Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake dessert is one of the BEST things you’ll have in Disney World and we could easily eat 10 of them in one sitting.

The eats might not be the most adventurous, but this place delivers on holiday flavors, a relaxing environment, and an awesome meal to bring the group together. (Just be warned about one thing that could impact your trip here!)

Click here to see our full review of Liberty Tree Tavern

8 — Boma (Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge)

If it’s unique eats and a delicious buffet you’re after, head to Boma.

Within the buffet, you’ll find some unique dishes like Mealie Bread, Hummus, carved meats, soups, bobotie, and more.

You’ll also find some more basic eats, though overall we’d say this is a spot for slightly more adventurous eaters.

And when it comes to desserts, you CANNOT miss the Zebra Domes (featuring a thin cake base topped with Amarula cream liquor mousse, coated in delicious white chocolate, and finished with chocolate stripes and shavings).

While those are the dinner eats, Boma also has a breakfast buffet that has a mix of classic items as well as dishes inspired by African cuisine.

The atmosphere, service, and meals here are typically outstanding. If it’s a buffet you’re after, Boma is the spot to visit.

Click here for PRO TIPS about Disney World buffets

9 — Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (EPCOT)

Want to dine with the Disney princesses? Cinderella’s Royal Table is typically the spot that comes to mind, and its location and atmosphere (inside Cinderella Castle) are certainly iconic. But did you know that there is a cheaper princess meal that’s easier to get into?

At EPCOT, you’ll find Akershus in the Norway pavilion. It serves family-style eats at breakfast (breakfast returned in 2023), lunch, and dinner and will still give you that Princess character dining experience.

Breakfast includes pastries, meats, and cheeses, along with potato casserole, Norwegian waffles, scrambled eggs, and more. The food is more “standard” fare (though we did love those waffles) but it’s still a solid option.

The lunch/dinner menu features some more unique eats with meatballs, chicken and dumplings, lefse, rice cream, and more. We really liked most of the things we ate here. Are there better meals to be had in EPCOT? Sure. But if you want some overall tasty (and slightly more unique) food with a princess dining experience, this is a great place to visit.

PLUS, breakfast here is a particularly great value in 2024. Why? Because while lunch and dinner here require 2 Table Service credits on the Disney Dining Plan, breakfast requires 1. That’s an awesome way to experience all of the fun of a Princess character meal without spending a ton of Dining Plan credits all at one time.

10 — EET by Maneet Chauhan (Disney Springs)

eet — a new restaurant by James Beard Award-winning chef and Food Network star Maneet Chauhan together with hospitality entrepreneur (and Chauhan’s husband) Vivek Deora — is now open in Disney Springs!

The restaurant has food options ranging from salads, to pizzas, to the highly-anticipated poutine.

It’s a great stop for a quick meal in Disney Springs.

Read our full review of EET here.

11 — Summer House on the Lake (Disney Springs)

You’ll find Summer House on the Lake on the West Side of Disney Springs. A cookie bar, a stellar view, and no park ticket required?! This new restaurant truly delivers a terrific option for hungry Walt Disney World guests.

The restaurant atmosphere is absolutely stunning, and I would definitely recommend it for a relaxed meal with friends!

For lighter fare and inventive menu items, try Summer House.

And don’t forget about the Cookie Bar!

You’ll want to live plenty of time to leisurely dine at this restaurant. If you’re in a hurry, choose a quick-service option at Disney Springs.

The real reason to go to Summer House on the Lake

12 — Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya (EPCOT)

Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya opened in EPCOT‘s Japan pavilion in August 2023. Shiki-Sai is a Table Service restaurant presenting, according to Disney, a “festive dining experience in a sharable Izakaya-style.” Japanese Izakaya is a type of casual pub-style restaurant that puts an emphasis on drinks and friendly conversation.

Every month will bring a NEW celebration of Japanese food to this spot, with changing menu items that represent a different Japanese seasonal festival “from hanging tanzaku to celebrate Tanabata in July to savoring moon-viewing dumplings in September.”

Consider adding Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya to your list if you’re looking for an adventurous new place to eat in EPCOT. We LOVED our meal — the food was fresh, the servers were fantastic, and the menu was extensive.

Click here to see more about Shiki-Sai!

Yet-To-Open Locations!

Alright, now let’s tackle some spots that have yet to open. These are upcoming locations all set to open at some point in 2024, and sometimes there’s nothing better than trying a brand NEW restaurant in Disney World, right?!

13 — The Cake Bake Shop (Disney’s BoardWalk)

First up we’ll hop over to Disney’s BoardWalk where technically 2 new restaurants are coming as part of The Cake Bake Shop‘s arrival! There will be a Table Service restaurant portion to this experience called The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant, which will serve brunch, lunch, and dinner with sweet and savory menus available. And there will even be an afternoon tea experience available here!

But there will also be a Cake Bake Shop Bakery portion, which will be more of a Quick Service/to-go experience with the ability for fans to grab a treat from the bakery and continue on their way.

The Cake Bake Shop is a creation of Gwendolyn Rogers, who we actually got an exclusive interview with that you can read about here! The restaurant already has locations in Indianapolis and Carmel (Indiana), one of which we visited. You can read all about our experience at the Indianapolis location here.

Though the menu for the Disney location has not been revealed, a quick glance at their existing menus shows savory items like Truffle Pommes Frites, Quiche, Sandwiches, and more. Of course, TONS of cakes, pies, and other sweet treats are typically available too, including French pastries, cheesecake, and other goodies.

We seriously cannot wait to try the eats, drinks, and SWEETS when this spot opens in 2024, and we think it’s a place you’ll want to check out in 2024 too.

Click here for our FULL REVIEW of the Cake Bake Shops in Indianapolis

14 — Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs (Disney’s BoardWalk)

And finally, we end this list with a spot that we know could be a BIG hit at Disney World — the Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs stand that is coming to Disney’s BoardWalk. Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs already runs a stand at Downtown Disney in Disneyland Resort, but in 2024 they’ll be making their way to the east coast.

While you will generally find a “regular” corn dog on the menu, the really exciting thing here is Blue Ribbon’s constantly rotating menu of unique corn dog creations. The Disney World menu hasn’t been released yet, but in Disneyland, we’ve seen things like the Mexican Street Corn Dog, a Christmas Corn Dog, and even a Golden Dragon Corn Dog!

Perhaps the most controversial item has been the PICKLE corn dog, which features a hot dog inside a pickle, dipped in batter, covered in panko bread crumbs, and fried, served with a peanut butter dipping sauce. Yes, those are a LOT of interesting flavors all packed into one snack, so get ready for some unique eats here!

An official opening date hasn’t been released yet but there could be a whole new world of corn dog creations for you to try very soon!

And there you have it — a list of great restaurants to try in 2024. Again, just keep in mind that your dining needs will vary depending on a number of factors, but we hope this list gave you a great starting point!

Still struggling with planning your dining reservations, check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle. It’s full of details to help you plan your snackin’ and spending in the parks. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks!

Stay tuned for more news!

Which of these restaurants will you be trying in 2024? Tell us in the comments!